Over 100 alumni of color and friends of diversity enjoyed an exciting evening of networking and entertainment at the third annual Alumni Soirée on Friday, August 12, at The Landing in Seattle’s University District. The event was hosted by the UW Office of Minority Affairs and Diversity (OMA&D), as well as campus sponsors the Foster School of Business and The Graduate School.
Guests had the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with old classmates and build relationships with new friends. Dinner from Famous Dave’s Barbecue was provided, and alumni of all ages danced to music spun by DJ Uncle Guy, who celebrated his birthday that evening. Vice President for Minority Affairs and Diversity Dr. Sheila Edwards Lange offered welcome remarks.
Information from the Graduate Opportunities for Minority Achievement Program (GO-MAP), the Foster School of Business and the UW Alumni Association was available to guests at various resource tables. Current students played a large role in the event as well, serving as volunteers for registration and catering. Among those lending a hand was newly elected ASUW President Conor McLean, as well as newly elected ASUW Director of Diversity Efforts, Jonathan Winn. Winn was also the president of the Black Student Union last year. OMA&D Community and Public Relations student intern Nataly Brockwell organized the student volunteer efforts.